Hello. We are planning to stay on the south coast of Portugal for a few days in the first part of September. I know that it is a beach weather during that time. However, I have heard conflicting opinions on whether or not the ocean is warm enough to swim in. Any input on this would be appriciated.
I know from my family who live in the Algarve that they swim in the ocean sometimes into December. For sure you will be able to go swimming in early September. Enjoy!
More importantly what do you define as "warm enough."? Not as warm as the Keys in September or the Gulf.
It depends where on the Algarve you are - the water is warmer the further east you travel as this is closer to the Med than the Atlantic.
Tavira and surrounding areas will be warm enough in September but I find the areas west of Lagos too cold at any time of year as my hands and feet go blue and numb from the cold water even in the height of summer.
Thank you very musch for your replies. Looks like I should stay as close to eastern border as possible. This information was very useful.